Media patching system with door assembly

ABSTRACT

Improved media patching systems and related methods of use are provided. The present disclosure provides improved systems/methods for the design and use of patching systems configured to support multiple media connections (e.g., high density, mixed media connections). The present disclosure provides advantageous systems/methods for the design and use of patching systems having one or more bracket members (e.g., Z-shaped bracket members) configured to facilitate cable management. In exemplary embodiments, the bracket members allow a panel assembly to move relative to the bracket members for cable management purposes. The improved systems/assemblies of the present disclosure provide users with the ability to install multiple media connections (e.g., copper-based and/or fiber optic connections) in the same patching system/enclosure. The present disclosure also provides media patching systems having a door assembly (e.g., mounted with respect to bracket members) that is configured to open, close, lock and unlock as desired by a user.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No.62/013,079 filed Jun. 17, 2014, which is hereby incorporated byreference in its entirety. This application is a continuation-in-part ofU.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/683,433, filed Apr. 10, 2015 andtitled “Media Patching System,” which is hereby incorporated byreference in its entirety. This application is also acontinuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/683,503,filed Apr. 10, 2015 and titled “Modular Cable Management Spools,” whichis hereby reference in its entirety. This application is also acontinuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/683,569,filed Apr. 10, 2015 and titled “Patch Panel Assembly for Media PatchingSystems,” which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.This application is also a continuation-in-part of U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 14/683,723, filed Apr. 10, 2015 and titled“Modularly Mountable Cable Management Systems,” all of which is hereinincorporated by reference in its entirety. This application is also acontinuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/683,786,filed Apr. 10, 2015 and titled “Cable Management Plate Assembly andAssociated Systems and Methods,” which is hereby incorporated byreference in its entirety.

FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE

The present disclosure relates to patching systems configured to supportmultiple media connections (e.g., high density, mixed media connections)and, more particularly, to media patching systems having a door assembly(e.g., mounted with respect to bracket members) that is configured toopen, close, lock and unlock as desired by a user.

BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE

In general, devices for interfacing with high frequency data transfermedia are known. See, e.g., U.S. Pat. Nos. 8,439,702; 8,672,709 and8,731,364, the entire contents of each being hereby incorporated byreference in their entireties.

For example, connectors or jack assemblies having a plurality ofcontacts (e.g., modular communication jacks) have been developed thatfacilitate communication with contacts in connecting assemblies (e.g.,plug connectors), that in turn interact with various media (e.g.,copper-based media such as unshielded twisted pair (UTP) media, fiberoptic cables, etc.). The jack assembly contacts are typically positionedfor communication with data signal transmission media plugelements/contacts introduced to a receiving space of the jack assembly.

In general, many data transfer media includes multiple pairs of linesbundled together. Communications systems typically incorporate suchmedia (e.g., UTP media, fiber optic cables, etc.) and connectors (e.g.,jack/plug combinations) for data transfer. For example, a plurality ofjack assemblies/housings may be positioned adjacent one another in amulti-gang jack panel or the like, with each jack assembly/housingreleasably secured and/or attached to the jack panel or the like.

In general, commercial buildings require an effective and efficienttelecommunications infrastructure to support the wide variety ofservices that rely on the transport of information. Typically, wiringsystems within buildings are terminated at a location where they may beinterconnected with one another, and/or to other cabling systems ortelecommunications equipment. Cables are often terminated on wire panelsor patch panels or the like, which can be mounted to racks or to someother location/structure.

Patch panels are known in the field of data communication systems. See,e.g., U.S. Pat. No. 8,106,311, the entire contents of which is herebyincorporated by reference in its entirety. Some other exemplaryassemblies/systems in this general field are described and disclosed inU.S. Pat. Nos. 7,697,811; 7,983,038; 8,184,938; 8,398,039; and U.S.Patent Pub. Nos. 2012/0064760 and 2013/0129296, the entire contents ofeach being hereby incorporated by reference in their entireties.

A patch panel generally provides a plurality of network portsincorporated into a structural element that connect incoming andoutgoing lines of a communication/electrical system (e.g., a local areanetwork (LAN) or the like). Typical patch panels are mounted hardwareunits that include a plurality of port locations, and utilize cables forinterconnections. A patch panel can use patch cords to create theinterconnections. Patch panel systems are generally intended tofacilitate organization and management in implementingtelecommunications wiring systems (e.g., for high speed data networks).

In general, many rows of cabinets or racks typically fill a data centeror telecommunications room. Patch panels affixed to a rack and/or atelecommunications room provide convenient access to telecommunicationdevices (e.g., servers) within the rack or room. As the demand for theuse of telecommunication devices rapidly grows, space for such devicesbecomes limited and/or expensive.

A constant need exists among manufacturers to develop patch panelassemblies/patching systems or the like that include improved featuresand structures.

Thus, an interest exists for improved patch panel assemblies/patchingsystems and related methods of use. These and other inefficiencies andopportunities for improvement are addressed and/or overcome by theassemblies, systems and methods of the present disclosure.

SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE

The present disclosure provides advantageous media patching systems, andimproved methods for using the same. The present disclosure providesadvantageous patching systems configured to support multiple mediaconnections (e.g., high density, mixed media connections), and relatedmethods of use.

More particularly, the present disclosure provides improvedsystems/methods for the design and use of media patching systems havingone or more bracket members (e.g., Z-shaped bracket members) configuredto facilitate cable management. In exemplary embodiments, the bracketmembers allow a panel assembly to move relative to the bracket members(e.g., for cable management purposes). The present disclosure alsoprovides media patching systems having a door assembly (e.g., mountedwith respect to bracket members) that is configured to open, close, lockand unlock as desired by a user.

In certain embodiments, disclosed herein is a high density patchingsystem configured to support multiple media connections. The improvedsystems of the present disclosure provide users with the ability toinstall multiple media connections (e.g., copper-based and/or fiberoptic connections) in the same patching system/enclosure. For example,high density jack patch panels can be utilized in the systems of thepresent disclosure to support multiple media connections (e.g., highdensity media connections, such as copper and/or fiber opticconnections). Exemplary patch panel assemblies disclosed herein canadvantageously increase the patching density of the systems of thepresent disclosure, and provide improved access to the media connectorsand cabling elements.

The present disclosure provides for a media management system includinga first bracket member and a second bracket member, the first bracketmember configured to releasably mount to a first cable management memberand the second bracket member configured to releasably mount to a secondcable management member, the first and second cable management membersconfigured to manage media cables; and a door assembly having a frameextending from a first end to a second end, the first end configured toreleasably mount to the first cable management member, and the secondend configured to releasably mount to the second cable managementmember; wherein the releasably mounted first and second ends allow thedoor assembly to move relative to the first and second bracket membersbetween a closed position and an open position and vice-versa.

The present disclosure also provides for a media management systemwherein the first end of the frame includes a first hinge pin, the firsthinge pin configured to be releasably mounted to a first bottomextension member of the first cable management member; and wherein thesecond end of the frame includes a second hinge pin, the second hingepin configured to be releasably mounted to a second bottom extensionmember of the second cable management member.

The present disclosure also provides for a media management systemwherein the first hinge pin is configured to be rotatably mounted to afirst hinge portion of the first bottom extension member, and the secondhinge pin is configured to be rotatably mounted to a second hingeportion of the second bottom extension member. The present disclosurealso provides for a media management system wherein the first hinge pinis positioned within a first groove of the first end of the frame, andsecond hinge pin is positioned within a second groove of the second endof the frame.

The present disclosure also provides for a media management systemwherein the first hinge pin includes a first spring portion that isconfigured to be compressed by a user to retract and release the firsthinge pin from the first bottom extension member; and wherein the secondhinge pin includes a second spring portion that is configured to becompressed by a user to retract and release the second hinge pin fromthe second bottom extension member.

The present disclosure also provides for a media management systemwherein the frame includes a wire that extends from a first end to asecond end, the first end of the wire mounted to a first spring-loadedpin mechanism and the second end of the wire mounted to a secondspring-loaded pin mechanism; and wherein the first spring-loaded pinmechanism includes a first pin configured to be releasably mounted to afirst top extension member of the first cable management member, and thesecond spring-loaded pin mechanism includes a second pin configured tobe releasably mounted to a second top extension member of the secondcable management member.

The present disclosure also provides for a media management systemwherein the first pin is configured to be releasably mounted to a firstlocking portion of the first top extension member, and the second pin isconfigured to be releasably mounted to a second locking portion of thesecond top extension member. The present disclosure also provides for amedia management system wherein the first end of the wire includes afirst loop that is mounted to a slot or hole of the first pin, and thesecond end of the wire includes a second loop that is mounted to a slotor hole of the second pin.

The present disclosure also provides for a media management systemwherein the first spring-loaded pin mechanism includes a first springthat is configured to be compressed by a user to retract and release thefirst pin from the first top extension member; and wherein the secondspring-loaded pin mechanism includes a second spring that is configuredto be compressed by a user to retract and release the second pin fromthe second top extension member. The present disclosure also providesfor a media management system wherein the first spring surrounds aportion of the first pin, and the second spring surrounds a portion ofthe second pin.

The present disclosure also provides for a media management systemwherein the door assembly includes a latch configured to be releasablyand movably mounted to the frame, the latch including a groove thathouses a portion of the wire; and wherein when the latch is movedupwardly by a user, this movement causes the wire to compress the firstand second springs and also retract and release the first and secondpins from the first and second top extension members, respectively.

The present disclosure also provides for a media management systemwherein the latch includes a hinge pin configured to be positionedwithin a mounting groove of the frame to releasably and movably mountthe latch to the frame.

The present disclosure also provides for a media management systemwherein the wire is fabricated from a shape-memory alloy, the wireconfigured to contract when an electrical current passes through thewire and return back to original length when the current ceases to flowthrough the wire.

The present disclosure also provides for a media management systemwherein when the wire contracts when an electrical current passesthrough the wire, this contraction causes the wire to compress the firstand second springs and also retract and release the first and secondpins from the first and second top extension members, respectively.

The present disclosure also provides for a media management systemwherein a key electrically connected to the frame is configured to causean electrical current to pass through the wire.

The present disclosure also provides for a media management systemwherein the key includes a first circuit board, a microprocessor and afirst dual inline package switch; wherein the frame includes a secondcircuit board, a second dual inline package switch and at least onecircuit wire connected to the second circuit board and electricallyconnected to the wire; and wherein when the key is mounted to the frame,the microprocessor of the key determines if there is a code matchbetween the first and second dual inline package switches and thenenables current flow to the wire if the first and second dual inlinepackage switches match.

The present disclosure also provides for a media management systemwherein the first and second dual inline package switches each includefour individual on-off switches. The present disclosure also providesfor a media management system wherein the key is connected to the framevia a USB receptacle.

The present disclosure also provides for a media patching systemincluding a panel assembly having a front panel segment, the front panelsegment having a plurality of apertures with each aperture configured tomount to a media connector assembly; a first bracket member and a secondbracket member, the first bracket member configured to releasably mountto a first cable management member and the second bracket memberconfigured to releasably mount to a second cable management member, thefirst and second cable management members configured to manage mediacables; a door assembly having a frame extending from a first end to asecond end, the first end configured to releasably mount to the firstcable management member, and the second end configured to releasablymount to the second cable management member; wherein the releasablymounted first and second ends allow the door assembly to move relativeto the first and second bracket members between a closed position and anopen position and vice-versa; and wherein the panel assembly is movablymounted to the first and second bracket members and can move axiallyforwards or backwards relative to the first and second bracket members.

The present disclosure also provides for a media management systemincluding a first bracket member and a second bracket member; a firstcable management member and a second cable management member, the firstand second cable management members configured to manage media cables; adoor assembly having a frame extending from a first end to a second end;means for releasably mounting: (i) the first cable management member tothe first bracket member, and (ii) the second cable management member tothe second bracket member; and means for releasably mounting: (i) thefirst end of the frame to the first cable management member, and (ii)the second end of the frame to the second cable management member;wherein the releasably mounted first and second ends allow the doorassembly to move relative to the first and second bracket membersbetween a closed position and an open position and vice-versa.

Any combination or permutation of embodiments is envisioned. Additionaladvantageous features, functions and applications of the disclosedsystems, methods and assemblies of the present disclosure will beapparent from the description which follows, particularly when read inconjunction with the appended figures. All references listed in thisdisclosure are hereby incorporated by reference in their entireties.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Features and aspects of embodiments are described below with referenceto the accompanying drawings, in which elements are not necessarilydepicted to scale.

Exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure are further describedwith reference to the appended figures. It is to be noted that thevarious features, steps and combinations of features/steps describedbelow and illustrated in the figures can be arranged and organizeddifferently to result in embodiments which are still within the scope ofthe present disclosure. To assist those of ordinary skill in the art inmaking and using the disclosed assemblies, systems and methods,reference is made to the appended figures, wherein:

FIG. 1 is a top perspective view of a media patching system according toan exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, prior to connectorassemblies mounted to the system;

FIG. 2 is a bottom perspective view of the system of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a top perspective view of the system of FIG. 1, afterexemplary connector assemblies are mounted to the system;

FIG. 4 is a bottom perspective view of the system of FIG. 3;

FIG. 5 is a bottom view of the system of FIG. 3;

FIG. 6 is a partial top perspective view of the system of FIG. 1, afterexemplary connector assemblies are mounted to the system;

FIG. 7 is a top perspective view of the cable management plate of thesystem of FIG. 1;

FIG. 8 is a top perspective view of the system of FIG. 1, with frontcover member attached;

FIG. 9 is a side perspective view of a bracket member of the system ofFIG. 1;

FIG. 10 is a side perspective view of a cable management member of thesystem of FIG. 1;

FIG. 11 is a top perspective view of the system of FIG. 3, afterexemplary cables/wires are mounted to the system;

FIG. 12 is a side perspective view of exemplary media patching systemsmounted with respect to a supporting structure;

FIG. 13 is a side view of the exemplary bracket member of FIG. 9;

FIG. 14 is a bottom view of the exemplary bracket member of FIG. 13;

FIG. 15 is a side perspective view of an exemplary panel assembly;

FIG. 16 is a side perspective view of another exemplary panel assembly;

FIG. 17 is a side perspective view of the panel assembly of FIG. 15mounted with respect to exemplary bracket members;

FIG. 18 is a side perspective view of an exemplary motion limitermember;

FIG. 19 is a front view of an exemplary door assembly;

FIG. 20 is a front perspective view of the central part of the doorassembly shown in FIG. 19 without the latch installed;

FIG. 21 is a rear perspective view of latch of the door assembly shownin FIG. 19;

FIG. 22 is a rear view of door assembly shown in FIG. 19;

FIG. 23 is a close-up perspective rear-view of one side of the doorassembly shown in FIG. 19;

FIG. 24 shows an exemplary door assembly mounted to an exemplary mediapatching system, the door assembly being moved to an open position;

FIG. 25 is a front perspective view of another exemplary door assemblywith an electronic key also shown;

FIG. 26 is a front perspective view of the door assembly shown in FIG.25 with the key inserted;

FIG. 27 is a rear perspective view of the central region of the doorassembly shown in FIG. 25;

FIG. 28 is a close-up perspective rear-view of one side of the doorassembly shown in FIG. 25;

FIGS. 29-30 show internal components of an exemplary key for use withthe door assembly of FIG. 25;

FIG. 31 shows a schematic of exemplary circuitry included in the doorassembly of FIG. 25;

FIGS. 32A-32C show a schematic of exemplary circuitry included in theexemplary key of FIG. 25; and

FIG. 33 shows another exemplary door assembly mounted to an exemplarymedia patching system, the door assembly being moved to an openposition.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF DISCLOSURE

The exemplary embodiments disclosed herein are illustrative ofadvantageous media patching systems of the present disclosure andmethods/techniques thereof. It should be understood, however, that thedisclosed embodiments are merely exemplary of the present disclosure,which may be embodied in various forms. Therefore, details disclosedherein with reference to exemplary patching systems/fabrication methodsand associated processes/techniques of assembly and use are not to beinterpreted as limiting, but merely as the basis for teaching oneskilled in the art how to make and use the advantageous patching systemsand/or alternative assemblies of the present disclosure.

In general, the present disclosure provides improved patching systems(e.g., patch panel assemblies), and related methods of use. The presentdisclosure provides improved systems/methods for the design and use ofpatching systems configured to support multiple media connections (e.g.,high density, mixed media connections).

More particularly, the present disclosure provides advantageoussystems/methods for the design and use of patching systems having one ormore bracket members (e.g., Z-shaped bracket members) configured tofacilitate cable management. In exemplary embodiments, the bracketmembers allow a panel assembly to move relative to the bracket members(e.g., for cable management purposes). The present disclosure alsoprovides media patching systems having a door assembly (e.g., mountedwith respect to bracket members) that is configured to open, close, lockand unlock as desired by a user.

In certain embodiments, disclosed herein is a high density patchingsystem configured to support multiple media connections. The improvedsystems provide users with the ability to install multiple mediaconnections (e.g., copper-based and/or fiber optic connections) in thesame patching system/enclosure. For example, high density jack patchpanels can be utilized to support multiple media connections. Theexemplary patching systems can be used to support one or more types ofcables used in a communication network. Moreover, exemplary patch panelassemblies disclosed herein can advantageously increase patching densityof the media patching system while maintaining port accessibility.

In exemplary embodiments, the present disclosure provides for improvedsystems/methods for the design/use of patching systems configured tosupport multiple media connections (e.g., copper and/or fiber opticconnections) in the same patching system/enclosure, thereby providing asignificant operational, commercial and/or manufacturing advantage as aresult. Moreover, the present disclosure also provides for improvedpatching systems having one or more bracket members (e.g., Z-shapedbracket members), with the bracket members facilitating a panel assemblyto move relative to the bracket members for cable management purposes,thereby providing a significant operational, commercial and/ormanufacturing advantage as a result.

Referring now to the drawings, like parts are marked throughout thespecification and drawings with the same reference numerals,respectively. Drawing figures are not necessarily to scale and incertain views, parts may have been exaggerated for purposes of clarity.

With reference to FIGS. 1-6, there is illustrated an embodiment of anexemplary media patching system 10 according to the present disclosure.In general, media patching system 10 is configured and dimensioned to beused as a patching system for media connections. It is noted that mediapatching system 10 can take a variety of forms, shapes and/or designs.

In general, media patching system 10 includes a panel assembly 12 (e.g.,patch panel assembly/multi-connector panel assembly 12). Exemplary panelassembly 12 has a front panel surface/segment 15 that includes aplurality of apertures 13 therethrough. As discussed in further detailbelow, each aperture 13 is typically configured and dimensioned to havea connector assembly/connective device 14, or 14B mounted with respectthereto (FIGS. 3-6, and 11). It is noted that the front panelsurface/segment 15 of panel assembly 12 can be angled (as shown), or itcan be substantially flat or planar as is shown in co-pendingapplication Ser. Nos. 14/683,433 and 14/683,569.

As shown in FIGS. 1 and 3-5, one or more connector assemblies 14 can bemounted with respect to panel assembly 12 (e.g., with one aperture 13configured to house/mount to one assembly 14), as described anddisclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 8,439,702 and 8,672,709 noted above. Moreparticularly, each connector assembly 14 typically includes a movablelocking member 16 (FIG. 3) that is configured to releasably secure theconnector assembly 14 to panel assembly 12 as described and disclosed inU.S. Pat. Nos. 8,439,702 and 8,672,709. Panel assembly 12 can includeany number of connector assemblies 14 mounted thereon (e.g., one, two,three, four, a plurality, etc.).

Each exemplary connector assembly 14 takes the form of a copper-basedelectrical connector assembly 14. More particularly, it is noted thateach connector assembly 14 includes a jack housing (e.g., high densitymodular communication jack housing) that is adapted to receive signalsfrom a mating connecting assembly (e.g., a plug connector, such as anRJ-45 plug or an IEC 60603-7-7 compliant plug) inserted or introduced toa receiving space of the jack housing. As such, associated contacts(e.g., eight contacts) or the like of the jack housing are positionedfor electrical communication with data signal transmission media plugelements/contacts introduced to the receiving space of the jack housing.In general, the jack housing of electrical connector assembly 14 issuitable for use in various applications, e.g., for interfacing withhigh frequency data transfer media, connection to data transfer devicesor the like, etc. For example, the jack housing of connector assembly 14may be mounted to a printed circuit board (PCB) and signals may transferfrom a plug connector introduced to the receiving space of connectorassembly 14 to the PCB and then to insulation displacement contacts(IDCs), thus completing the data interface and transfer throughconnector assembly 14.

In other embodiments, panel assembly 12 can have one or more fiber-opticconnector assemblies mounted thereon (via apertures 13) as is shown anddescribed in co-pending application Ser. Nos. 14/683,433 and 14/683,569.Panel assembly 12 can include any number of fiber-optic connectorassemblies mounted thereon (e.g., one, two, three, four, a plurality,etc.).

More particularly, each connector fiber-optic assembly includes one ormore ports/adapters to facilitate communication with a mating assembly(e.g., fiber optic connector), that in turn can interact with variousfiber optic media (fiber optic cables, etc.). The ports/adapters ofassembly are typically positioned for communication with fiber opticconnectors introduced to a receiving space of connector assembly.Similar to connector assembly 14, each fiber-optic connector assemblycan include a movable locking member 16 that is configured to releasablysecure the connector assembly to panel assembly 12, as described above.

As shown in FIGS. 3-6, one or more connector assemblies 14B can bemounted with respect to panel assembly 12. Panel assembly 12 can includeany number of connector assemblies 14B mounted thereon. Exemplaryconnector assembly 14B takes the form of a fiber optic cassette 14Bhaving a plurality of fiber optic ports/adapters (e.g., 12 ports) formating with fiber optic connectors. In certain embodiments, connectorassembly 14B includes six port housings 18, with each port housing 18including two or more fiber optic ports/adapters (e.g., LC, SC, MPOadapters).

Each port housing 18 is configured to be inserted through and mountedwith respect to six respective apertures 13 of panel assembly 12 vialocking members 16 disposed on each top end of connector assembly 14B(FIG. 3), as similarly discussed above for locking members 16 ofassemblies 14. It is noted that connector assembly 14B can include anysuitable number of port housings 18 and/or fiber optic ports and/orlocking members 16 for mounting to panel assembly 12, and/or for fiberoptic communication purposes.

It is noted that panel assembly 12 of system 10 can include any number,combination and/or permutation of connector assemblies/connectordevices. Thus, panel assembly 12 of system 10 advantageously providesusers with the ability to install multiple (mixed) media connections(e.g., copper-based and/or fiber optic connections) in the same patchingsystem/enclosure 10. Moreover, panel assembly 12 can advantageouslyincrease patching density of the media patching system 10 whilemaintaining port accessibility. FIG. 11 shows a plurality of cables 38mounted with respect to the ports of connector assemblies 14B, and aplurality of cables 40 mounted with respect to the jack housings ofconnector assemblies 14. Additionally, front face 15 of panel assemblycan have different alternative constructions, including one or moreconstructions in which apertures 13 are larger and are configured anddimensioned for the mounting of bezels as is shown and described inco-pending application Ser. Nos. 14/683,433 and 14/683,569.

In certain embodiments, media patching system 10 is configured anddimensioned to be mounted with respect to a supporting structure 950(e.g., rack 950—FIG. 12) or the like. As shown in FIG. 12, it is notedthat exemplary media patching systems 10 is adapted for use inconjunction with a rack 950 (e.g., network or server rack) or the like,although the present disclosure is not limited thereto. Rather, thedisclosed media patching system 10 is adapted for use in conjunctionwith other structures, such as, for example, frames, cabinets,supporting structures, or other structures that stand to benefit fromproximate cable management functionality. For ease of disclosure, thepotential structures to which the disclosed system 10 may be mounted arecollective referred to as “rack(s).” However, it is to be understoodthat the present disclosure is not limited by or to implementationswherein the disclosed system 10 is mounted with respect to, or used inconjunction with, a rack 950, but may be mounted with respect to, orused in conjunction with other structures/units (e.g., structures/unitsassociated with cable routing).

As shown in FIG. 12, one or more media patching systems 10 can bemounted with respect to rack 950 or the like. Any suitable number ofsystems 10 can be mounted with respect to rack 950, and the systems 10may or may not include cover members 33, 34 and/or 35. For example andas shown in FIG. 12, ten systems 10 are mounted with respect to rack950, with the ten systems mounted proximal to one another within rack950. In one embodiment, the top system 10 in rack 950 includes top covermembers 33 and 34, and the bottom system 10 includes bottom cover member35.

Exemplary rack 950 is depicted in FIG. 12, and such rack 950 and otherexemplary mounting structures suitable for use with systems 10 aredescribed and disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 7,983,038, which is herebyincorporated by reference in its entirety. However and as noted above,systems 10 may be mounted with respect to or used in conjunction withother structures/units.

Panel assembly 12 (e.g., patch panel assembly/multi-connector panelassembly 12) of media patching system 10 can be mounted with respect toa first bracket member 20 and a second bracket member 22 (FIGS. 1 and9). A cable management member 24 can be mounted with respect to eachbracket member 20, 22 for cable/wire management purposes of system 10.Each bracket member 20, 22 can be mounted with respect to a cablemanagement plate 26. Cable management plate 26 can include one or morecable management spool assemblies 28 or the like removably mountedthereon for cable/wire management purposes of system 10. System 10 mayor may not include top covers 33, 34 and/or bottom cover 35 (e.g.,mounted with respect to bracket members 20, 22). System 10 may alsoinclude a door assembly 36 (e.g., mounted with respect to bracketmembers 20, 22) that is configured to open, close, lock and unlock asdesired by a user.

In certain embodiments, panel assembly 12 can be movably mountedrelative to bracket members 20, 22 via one or more slots 30 of bracketmembers 20, 22. Pull tab members 32 of panel assembly 12 can facilitatemovement of panel assembly 12 relative to bracket members 20, 22.

With reference to FIGS. 9 and 13, perspective and side views ofexemplary bracket members 20, 22 are shown. In exemplary embodiments,each bracket member 20, 22 defines a substantially z-shapedconfiguration, including a first planar segment 401, a second planarsegment 402, and a third planar segment 403 connecting the first andsecond planar segments 401, 402. As discussed further below, exemplaryfirst and second planar segments 401, 402 are substantially parallelrelative to each other and define sides of the media patching system 10.One or more slots 30 can extend along the length defined by secondplanar segment 402. Exemplary third planar segment 403 is substantiallyperpendicular to first and second planar segments 401, 402, although thepresent disclosure is not limited thereto.

Exemplary bracket members 20, 22 include a first aperture 404 and asecond aperture 405 spaced relative to each other and passing throughthe second planar segment 402. Exemplary first aperture 404 defines acircular shape. Second aperture 405 can define a circular shapeincluding a slot extending therefrom (e.g., a keyhole aperture 405). Asdiscussed further below, first and second apertures 404, 405 can be usedto detachably secure the cable management plate 26 to the bracketmembers 20, 22.

With reference again to FIGS. 9 and 13, and also to FIG. 14, eachexemplary bracket member 20, 22 defines a substantially z-shapedconfiguration, including a first planar segment 401, a second planarsegment 402, and a third planar segment 403 connecting the first andsecond planar segments 401, 402.

More particularly and as shown in FIG. 14, first planar segment 401defines the plane of Arrow A, second planar segment 402 defines theplane of Arrow B, and third planar segment 403 defines the plane ofArrow C. As noted, exemplary first and second planar segments 401, 402are substantially parallel relative to each other and define sides ofthe media patching system 10. Exemplary third planar segment 403 issubstantially perpendicular/transverse to first and second planarsegments 401, 402, and exemplary first and second planar segments 401,402 are substantially parallel relative to each other and are spacedapart from one another, although the present disclosure is not limitedthereto.

As shown in FIG. 13, one or more slots 30 can extend along a lengthdefined by second planar segment 402. In certain embodiments, secondplanar segment 402 includes top and bottom slots 30, and a middle slot30′ positioned between the top and bottom slots 30. In general, slots30, 30′ extend through segment 402 (and slots 29, 37, 39 extend throughsegment 402, discussed below). In some embodiments and as shown in FIG.13, middle slot 30′ includes an enlarged slot portion 29. Exemplaryenlarged slot portion 29 takes the form of a rectangular or square slotportion 29, although the present disclosure is not limited thereto.Rather, slot portion 29 can take a variety of forms/shapes (e.g.,polygonal, circular, etc.). Enlarged slot portion 29 can be positionedat a suitable position along the length of slot 30′ (e.g., approximatelyhalf-way along the length of slot 30′; at or near the proximal end ofslot 30′, etc.). It is noted that middle slot 30′ may or may not includeenlarged slot portion 29.

The proximal ends of slots 30, 30′ can include enlarged/detent portions37 (e.g., positioned at, near or proximal to proximal end 41 of secondplanar segment 402). Enlarged/detent portions 37 can take a variety offorms/shapes (e.g., circular, polygonal, etc.). In general and asdiscussed further below, enlarged portions 37 act as a detent toposition the sliding panel assembly 112, and provide a means/position tomount the panel assembly 112 to the bracket members 20, 22.

Exemplary second segment 402 can also include distal slot portion 39positioned at or near (e.g., proximal to) distal end 43 of second planarsegment 402 (e.g., spaced from the distal end of slot 30′ andsubstantially axially aligned with slot portion 29). Distal slot portion39 can take a variety of forms/shapes (e.g., polygonal, circular, etc.).

With reference again to FIG. 9, the third segment 403 of each bracketmember 20, 22 typically includes one or more apertures 23 (e.g., threeapertures 23) therethrough. In general, each aperture 23 is configuredand dimensioned to allow bracket member 20, 22 to be mounted withrespect to rack 950 (FIG. 13) or the like (e.g., via correspondingapertures on rack 950, and with fastening members or the like throughthe respectively aligned bracket/rack apertures).

In exemplary embodiments, each bracket member 20, 22 is fabricated froma single piece of material (e.g., fabricated from a single piece ofsheet metal or the like), although the present disclosure is not limitedthereto. As such, exemplary bracket members 20, 22 advantageously reducecost by eliminating extra parts required to mount a system 10 to a rack950 or the like. Moreover, the exemplary bracket members 20, 22advantageously reduce the amount of weight (e.g., the amount of metal)needed to fabricate the system 10, while still providing sufficientstructural rigidity to system 10.

In other embodiments, it is noted that each bracket member 20, 22 can befabricated from a variety of materials (e.g., from one material, or froma combination of materials), and can take a variety of shapes/designs.

FIG. 15 shows another exemplary panel assembly 112. Panel assembly 112defines a substantially U-shaped configuration, including the frontpanel surface/segment 115, a first side segment 156, and a second sidesegment 158. In general, front panel segment 115 connects the first andsecond side segments 156, 158 to define the substantially U-shapedconfiguration of panel assembly 112.

In exemplary embodiments, panel assembly 112 is fabricated from a singlepiece of material, although the present disclosure is not limitedthereto. For example, the segments 115, 156, 158 can be integral to oneanother, with the side segments 156, 158 bent back to form thesubstantially U-shaped configuration of panel assembly 112.

Exemplary first and second side segments 156, 158 are substantiallyparallel relative to each other and define sides of the panel assembly112. Exemplary front panel segment 115 is substantially perpendicular tofirst and second side segments 156, 158, although the present disclosureis not limited thereto. Rather, it is noted that front panel segment 115can be angled (e.g., similar to panel segment 15 of FIG. 1). As such,assembly 112 (e.g., front panel segment 115) can take a variety ofshapes, forms and/or geometries.

FIG. 16 shows another exemplary panel assembly 12′ of the presentdisclosure. Similar to panel assembly 112 (and panel assembly 12),exemplary panel assembly 12′ defines a substantially U-shapedconfiguration, including the front panel surface/segment 15, a firstside segment 56, and a second side segment 58.

In exemplary embodiments and as shown in FIGS. 15 and 17, panel assembly112 (or assembly 12′, or assembly 12) can be movably mounted relative tobracket members 20, 22 via one or more slots 30, 30′ of bracket members20, 22 (FIG. 13). As noted above, pull tab members 32, 132 of panelassembly 12, 12′, 112 can facilitate movement of panel assembly 12, 12′,112 relative to bracket members 20, 22.

With reference to FIG. 15, the inner surface of first side segment 156can include one or more protrusion members 160 (e.g., panel fasteners,panel screws, PEMs, etc.) that extend inwards from the inner surface offirst side segment 156. Similarly, the inner surface of second sidesegment 158 can include one or more protrusion members 160.

Moreover, the outer surface of first side segment 156 can include one ormore protrusion members 160, and the outer surface of second sidesegment 158 can include one or more protrusion members 160. The distalend of first and second side segments 156, 158 each can include anaperture 162 therethrough (e.g., rectangular, polygonal, circularaperture 162, etc.).

Similarly and as shown in FIG. 16, the inner and outer surfaces of firstside segment 56 can include one or more protrusion members 60, and theinner and outer surfaces of second side segment 58 can include one ormore protrusion members 60. The distal end of first and second sidesegments 56, 58 each can include an aperture 62 therethrough.

In exemplary embodiments and as shown in FIGS. 15-18, a motion limitermember 64 is configured and dimensioned to be mounted with respect tothe inner surface of each distal end of first and second side segments56, 58, 156, 158 of panel assembly 12′ or 112.

More particularly and as depicted in FIG. 16, each motion limiter member64 is configured to mount to one or more inner protrusion members 60 (or160) of segments 56, 58 (or 156, 158), with a portion of a tab member 65(e.g., cammed tab member 65) of the motion limiter member 64 protrudingand extending through each aperture 62, 162 (e.g., extending througheach aperture 62, 162 and beyond the outer surface of segments 56, 58,156, 158).

As shown in FIG. 18, exemplary motion limiter member 64 includes one ormore fastener features 66 (e.g., three fastener features 66), with eachfastener feature 66 configured to releasably mount to an innerprotrusion member 60, 160. One or more fastener features 66 can includemembers that snap-fit onto a protrusion member 60, 160.

With reference to FIGS. 13 and 15-17, to mount panel assembly 112, 12′(or 12) to bracket members 20, 22, a user can position segments 56, 58,156, 158 of panel assembly 112, 12′ (or 12) between bracket members 20,22 (e.g., prior to or after bracket members 20, 22 are mounted to rack950 via apertures 23) so that one or more protrusion members 60, 160 ofthe outer surface of segments 56, 58, 156, 158 are each positionedwithin an enlarged portion 37 of slots 30, 30′ of bracket members 20,22.

The panel assembly 112, 12′ can then be moved back toward the distal end43 of bracket members 20, 22 until each outer protrusion member 60, 160within slots 30, 30′ reaches the distal end of slots 30, 30′ (FIG. 17),and with a portion of each tab member 65 of the mounted motion limitermember 64 protruding/extending through each aperture 62, 162 and alsoprotruding/extending through each distal slot portion 39 of bracketmembers 20, 22. As such and in this position, each aperture 62, 162 (andeach tab member 65) is respectively aligned with a distal slot portion39 of a bracket member 20, 22.

However, it is noted that some embodiments may not include a motionlimiter member 64 mounted to segments 56, 58, 156 and/or 158, andtherefore in this position each aperture 62, 162 is respectively alignedwith a distal slot portion 39 of a bracket member 20, 22 without the tabmember 65 extending through aligned apertures 62, 162 and slot portions39 (FIG. 17). With respect to FIG. 17, it is noted that a motion limitermember 64 can be mounted to the inner surfaces of segments 156, 158, assimilarly shown in FIG. 16 for panel assembly 12′, with the tab member65 extending through aligned apertures 162 and slot portions 39 in theposition shown in FIG. 17.

It is noted that prior to or after mounting the panel assembly 112, 12′(or 12) to bracket members 20, 22, the connector assemblies/connectivedevices can be mounted with respect to panel assembly 112, 12′, 12, asdiscussed above.

It is noted that a user can move/pull (e.g., via pull tab members 32,132) the panel assembly 112, 12′, 12 from the position shown in FIG. 17toward the proximal end 41 of second segment 402 of bracket member 20,22 (FIGS. 13 and 17), with the tab members 65 extending throughapertures 62, 162 being released from slot portions 39, and then thepanel assembly 112, 12′, 12 moving toward proximal end 41 and relativeto bracket members 20, 22 with the outer protrusion members 60, 160traveling within slots 30, 30′ until the panel assembly 112, 12′, 12reaches a desired proximal position determined by the user.

For example, the user can move the panel assembly 112, 12′, 12 towardproximal end 41 until the tab members 65 extending through apertures 62,162 also extend through aligned slot portions 29 of slot 30′, and withthe outer protrusion members 60, 160 positioned within slots 30, 30′. Insuch a position (tabs 65 in slots 29), a user can easily access andmanage the connector assemblies/connective devices of panel assembly112, 12′, 12 (e.g., manage, access, plug, unplug the media, cables,wires, fibers, ports, etc. to or from connector assemblies/connectivedevices), and/or mount/replace/remove/repair the connectorassemblies/connective devices of panel assembly 112, 12′, 12.

In this regard, it is noted that when panel assembly 112, 12′, 12 is insuch a forward position (e.g., with tab members 65 extending throughapertures 62, 162 also extending through aligned slot portions 29 ofslot 30′), the slot portions 29, via tab members 65 extendingtherethrough, provide a stop position for panel assembly 112, 12′, 12such that users can easily access and manage assemblies/devices (e.g.,when the panel assembly 12′, 112, is moved proximally away from the backposition shown in FIG. 17).

After a user is done with panel assembly 112, 12′, 12 in the forwardposition (tab members 65 through slot portions 29), the user can movethe panel assembly 112, 12′, 12 distally to the back position shown inFIG. 17. For example, with user force (distally—via members 32, 132) thetab members 65 can be released from slot portions 29, and then the panelassembly 112, 12′, 12 can be moved toward distal end 43 (relative tobracket members 20, 22) with the outer protrusion members 60, 160traveling within slots 30, 30′ until the panel assembly 112, 12′, 12reaches the distal end of slots 30, 30′ and with tab members 65extending through distal slot portions 39. In the back position shown inFIG. 17, it is noted that the panel assembly 112, 12′, 12 is alsoprevented from moving further distally because the top and bottomflanges 68, 70 of second segment 402 (FIG. 9) engage/contact with therespective top and bottom flanges 72, 74, 172, 174 of panel assembly112, 12′, 12 (FIGS. 15-17) when the panel assembly 112, 12′, 12 is at ornear the back position.

Alternatively, after a user is done with panel assembly 112, 12′, 12 inthe forward position (tab members 65 through slot portions 29), the usercan move the panel assembly 112, 12′, 12 even more proximally with theouter protrusion members 60, 160 traveling within slots 30, 30′ untilthe panel assembly 112, 12′, 12 reaches the proximal end 41 of slots 30,30′. At such proximal position, the outer protrusion members 60, 160 arepositioned within the enlarged portions 37 of slots 30, 30′, and theuser can also easily access and manage the assemblies/connectivedevices, or the user can remove/replace the panel assembly 112, 12′, 12from bracket members 20, 22 (e.g., via removing/disengaging the outerprotrusion members 60, 160 from enlarged portions 37 of slots 30, 30′).

It is noted that when panel assembly 112, 12′, 12 is mounted relative tobracket members 20, 22 via outer protrusion members 60, 160 travelingwithin slots 30, 30′, the user can advantageously move/position thepanel assembly 112, 12′, 12 to a desired position along slots 30, 30′for access and/or management purposes (e.g., to easily access/manage theassemblies/connective devices). Additionally, a user can easily removeor replace a panel assembly 112, 12′, 12 from bracket members 20, 22, asnoted above. Further, it is noted that when outer protrusion members 60,160 travel within slots 30, 30′ (e.g., proximally or distally), theslots 30, 30′ advantageously prevent binding of the sliding panelassembly 112, 12′, 12 as it slides/moves proximally or distally.

Panel assembly 12 and bracket members 20, 22 can have variousalternative structures for mounting the panel assembly to the bracketmembers in a slidable manner, as shown and described in co-pendingapplication Ser. Nos. 14/683,433 and 14/683,569. With reference again toFIGS. 1, 9, 10, 26 and 28, a cable management member 24 can beremovably/interchangeably mounted with respect to each bracket member20, 22 for cable/wire 38, 40 management purposes of system 10.

As shown in FIGS. 9 and 13, the inner surface of first segment 401 ofeach bracket member 20, 22 can include one or more protrusion members 60(e.g., four panel fasteners, panel screws, PEMs, etc.) that extendinwards from the inner surface of first segment 401. As shown in FIG.10, each cable management member 24 can include one or morecorresponding securement slots 82 (e.g., four keyhole slots 82) thatallow the cable management member 24 to be releasably secured to arespective protrusion member 60 of segment 401 (FIGS. 1, 9 and 10).Cable management member 24 can also include a tab member 84 thatreleasably secures to a slot 86 of segment 401 when member 24 isreleasably secured or mounted with respect to bracket member 20, 22.

As shown in FIG. 10, cable management member 24 can include one or moreextension arms 88 (e.g., cable management arms 88, bend limiting arms88, etc.) for cable management purposes. In exemplary embodiments,member 24 includes four extension arms 88, with the top extension arm 88and the arm 88 below it defining a first cable/wire passageway P1, withthe middle two extension arms 88 defining a second cable/wire passagewayP2, and with the bottom extension arm 88 and the arm 88 above itdefining a third cable/wire passageway P3. It is noted that member 24can include other suitable numbers of arms 88 and respective cable/wirepassageways. In general, after member 24 is mounted with respect tobracket member 20, 22, the extension arms 88 and passageways P1, P2, P3are exposed by open section 90 of segment 401 (e.g., so thatuser-selected cables/wires 38, 40 can pass through passageways P1, P2,P3 and out of bracket members 20, 22 for cable management purposes—FIG.11).

As shown in FIG. 10, the top extension arm 88 can include a lockingportion 92 that removably locks/unlocks with door assembly 36 (FIG. 1),and the bottom extension arm 88 can include a hinged portion 93 thatallows door assembly 36 to hinge relative thereto.

Cable management member 24 can also include various attachment featuresfor removably securing top cover member 33 (FIG. 8) and/or a frontbottom cover member (not shown) to member 24. For example and as shownin FIG. 10, the top and bottom surfaces of member 24 can each include apost member 67 that is configured and dimensioned to mount with respectto a corresponding aperture on top cover member 33 and/or front bottomcover member. Moreover, the top and bottom surfaces of member 24 caneach include an aperture 69 that is configured to be mounted/alignedwith respect to a corresponding aperture on top cover member 33 and/orfront bottom cover member, with a fastener member then positionedthrough the aligned apertures for securement purposes. In someembodiments, it is noted that top cover member 33 and/or front bottomcover member can be removably mounted with respect to cable managementmembers 24 before the members 24 are removably mounted with respect tobracket members 20, 22, although the present disclosure is not limitedthereto. As such, top cover member 33 and/or front bottom cover membercan be attached to members 24 as one assembly for easy insertion andremoval from rack-mounted bracket members 20, 22. In other embodiments,top cover member 33 and/or front bottom cover member (not shown) areremovably mounted to members 24 after members 24 are mounted to brackets20, 22. With reference to FIGS. 8, 9 and 13, the top flange 68 ofsegment 402 of bracket members 20, 22 can include one or more protrusionmembers 60 that extend downward from top flange 68. In general, eachprotrusion member 60 of top flange 68 is configured and dimensioned toreleasably secure to apertures/slots or the like of optional top covermember 34 (FIG. 8).

In another embodiment and as shown in FIG. 17, the top flange 168 ofsegment 401 of bracket members 20, 22 can include one or more protrusionmembers 60 that extend downward from top flange 168, and the bottomflange 170 of segment 401 of bracket members 20, 22 can include one ormore protrusion members 60 that extend upwards from bottom flange 170.In general, the protrusion members 60 of flanges 168, 170 are configuredand dimensioned to releasably secure to apertures/slots or the like ofoptional top cover member 33 and/or optional front bottom cover member.

Likewise and as shown in FIG. 17, flanges 168, 170 can include one ormore apertures 169 that are configured to be mounted/aligned withrespect to a corresponding aperture or dimple on top cover member 33and/or front bottom cover member, with the dimple (or a separatefastener member) then positioned through the aligned apertures/dimplesfor securement purposes. Similarly and as shown in FIG. 17, the topflange 68 of segment 402 can include one or more apertures 169A that areconfigured to be mounted/aligned with respect to a correspondingaperture or dimple on top cover member 34, with the dimple (or aseparate fastener member) then positioned through the alignedapertures/dimples for securement purposes.

In exemplary embodiments and as discussed above, system 10 providesusers with the option of utilizing system 10 as a substantially openframe system 10, or as a semi-enclosed system 10, or as a substantiallyenclosed system 10. For example, a user may want to mount cover members33, 34, 35 and 94 to system 10 (and door assembly 36), thereby providinga substantially enclosed system 10 (e.g., for cable management).Alternatively, a user may want to mount one or more of cover members 33,34, 35 and/or 94 to system 10 thereby providing a semi-enclosed system10. Likewise, cover members 33, 34, 35 and 94 may not be mounted tosystem 10 thereby providing a substantially open frame system 10 optionto the user. Such flexible modular designs of system 10 advantageouslyoffers the ability for a substantially enclosed system 10 or an open (orsemi-open) system 10 without extra parts.

With reference again to FIG. 14 and as discussed above, first segment401 of bracket member 20, 22 defines the plane of Arrow A, secondsegment 402 defines the plane of Arrow B, and third segment 403 definesthe plane of Arrow C. As noted, exemplary first and second planarsegments 401, 402 can be substantially parallel relative to each otherand define sides of the media patching system 10.

As such, exemplary bracket members 20, 22 advantageously allow anexemplary panel assembly 12 to be mounted with respect to bracketmembers 20, 22 and allow panel assembly 12 to be moved or positionedproximally or distally with the side segments 156, 158 of panel assembly12 substantially travelling or being positioned along plane B of secondsegments 402 of brackets 20, 22.

Moreover, exemplary bracket members 20, 22 advantageously allow anexemplary cable management member 24 to be mounted with respect tobracket members 20, 22 and allow cable management member 24 to bepositioned along plane A of first segments 401 of brackets 20, 22.

In short, the exemplary bracket members 20, 22, each advantageouslyallows for at least two different planes (plane A and plane B) that havefunctionality—plane A allows for the cable management member 24 to beutilized for cable management purposes substantially in or along planeA, and plane B allows for the sliding/positioning of a panel assemblysubstantially in or along plane B (which allows users easy access to theconnector assemblies mounted to the panel assemblies). Moreover, plane C(defined by third segment 403) allows for segment 403 to includeapertures 23, with each aperture 23 configured to allow bracket member20, 22 to be mounted with respect to rack 950 (FIG. 13) or the like.

FIG. 19 shows a front view of an exemplary door assembly 36 for thefront of media patching system 10. Door assembly 36 includes a generallyrectangular frame 202. A latch 204 is mounted to the frame 202 in acentral location of frame 202. Frame 202 and latch 204 may be made ofmolded plastic.

FIG. 20 shows a front perspective view of the central part of frame 202shown in FIG. 19 without the latch 204 installed. As shown in FIG. 20,the front of frame 202 includes an opening 206. Opening 206 includes aback wall 208. Back wall 208 contains a groove 210 and two hingesupports 212. Back wall does not extend the entire height of the opening206, thereby creating an open area 214 above back wall 208.

FIG. 21 shows a rear perspective view of latch 204. As shown in FIG. 21,two hinge pins 216 extend from the back of latch 204. Hinge pins 216 areinserted into groove 210 at hinge supports 212 to install the latch ontothe frame 202. A wire groove 218 also extends from the back of latch 204above the hinge supports 212. Once installed, latch 204 can rotate aboutthe hinge pins 216. In particular, the bottom of latch 204 can be liftedupward so that it moves away from the back wall 208 of opening 206. Whenthe bottom of the latch 204 is so lifted to rotate the latch about thehinge pins 216, the wire groove 218 on the top rear of the latch rotatesrearward and downward. Because the wire groove 218 is located in theopen area 214 above the top of the back wall 208, back wall 208 does notprohibit the rearward movement of the wire groove.

FIG. 22 shows a rear view of door assembly 36. As shown in FIG. 22, ametal wire or flexible wire cable 220 runs through wire groove 218 onthe back of latch 204. Each end of metal wire 220 is connected to aspring-loaded pin mechanism 222. The two spring-loaded pin mechanisms222, on opposite sides of the rear surface of frame 202, can have thesame construction and/or operation, as further discussed below inconnection with FIG. 23.

FIG. 23 is a close-up perspective rear-view of one side of door assembly36. As shown in FIG. 23, the end of wire 220 is connected tospring-loaded pin mechanism 222. In particular, the end of wire 220includes a loop 221 that is inserted in a slot or hole 224 at the backend of a pin 226. Pin 226 can slide within first and second supports228, 230, respectively, in a channel 232 in the back of frame 202. Pin226 includes a large diameter region 234. A compression spring 236surrounds the pin 226 in between an end surface 238 of the largediameter region 234 and an end surface 240 of support 230. When the pin226 is in the lock position (shown), the opposite end surface 242 oflarge diameter region 234 rests against an end surface of support 228.The front end of pin has an angled surface 244, the purpose of whichwill be described below.

As also shown in FIG. 23, a groove 246 is located on each side of therear of frame 202 near the bottom of the frame 202. A hinge pin 248 isinserted inside of the groove 246. The hinge pin includes a springportion 250 that is located between two supports 252, 254 surroundingthe hinge pin when it is in the groove 246. The spring portion 250 canbe in the form of a torsion spring as is shown in FIG. 23. Hinge pin 248fits in hinge portion 93 (FIG. 10) in bottom extension member 88 ofcable manager member 24 to rotatably mount door assembly 36 to the mediapatching assembly 10. Hinge pin 248 can be manipulated into the openingin hinge portion 93 by compressing the spring portion 250 to retract end256 of the pin so that the pin can be positioned so that it is axiallyaligned with the opening in hinge portion 93 and then releasing thespring portion 250 to move the end 256 of the pin into the opening inhinge portion 93. Similarly, door assembly 36 can be removed from thefingers by compressing the spring portion 250 to retract end 256 of thepin from the opening in hinge portion 93. A label card 257 can beinserted between the door frame and the spring portion 250 of the hingepin.

The operation of the door-release mechanism is as follows. When thelower portion of latch 204 is lifted so that it moves away from the backwall 208 of the opening 206, the latch 204 rotates about the hinge pins214. This rotation causes wire/cable groove 218 to move rearward so thatit pulls on the portion of metal wire 220 that runs through the wiregroove 218. This pulling of metal cable 220 causes each end of metalcable 220 to pull the pin 226 it is connected to against the force ofspring 236. This causes pin end 244 to retract so that it is no longerinside of locking portion 92 of top extension member 88 of cable managermember 24 (FIG. 10). When pin end 244 is in this retracted position,door 36 can be rotated downward about hinge pins 248 (FIG. 24).

When latch 204 is released, spring 236 pushes the pins 226 back to theirrest position, since cable 220 no longer exerts a force on the pin 226in the opposite direction. Once open, the door assembly 36 can be closedand locked without manipulation of the latch 204. In particular, as thedoor 36 is rotated rearward towards the cable managers 24 to close it,the pin 226 will initially be blocked by locking portion 92. But becausepin 226 has an angled end surface 244, it will retract as the door 36continues to close against the force of spring 236. Pin 226 willeventually line up with the opening in locking portion 92 at which pointspring 236 will push pin 226 to its locking (rest) position within theopening in locking portion 92.

FIG. 24 shows an exemplary door assembly 36 mounted to an exemplarymedia patching system 10, the door assembly 36 being moved to an openposition.

In another embodiment and with reference to FIG. 23, it is noted thatinstead of having wire 220 with loop 221 being separate parts or piecesrelative to: (i) pin 226 with angled surface 224, and (ii) relative tospring 236, one could combine the wire 220 (and/or loop 221), thelocking pin 226, and the spring 236 into a single or integral part(e.g., a single plastic part). By moving this single part downward (orinward) with the latch 204, the arms of the single part would act as thespring 236, and the ends of the single part (acting as the pin 226)would retract, allowing the door 36 to be opened (e.g., the single partwould act or function like a leaf spring, and without the need forspring 236).

FIG. 25 is a front perspective view of another exemplary door assembly36′. Door assembly 36′ includes the same spring-loaded pin mechanism 222in door assembly 36 as shown in FIGS. 22-23, but, as described in moredetail below, in door assembly 36′ the wire 382 between thespring-loaded pin mechanisms 222 is made of a shape-memory alloy (e.g.,nickel/titanium SMA alloy) and is constructed such that it contractswhen an electrical current passes through it and returns back tooriginal length when the current ceases to flow through it.

As shown in FIG. 25, instead of the latch 204 in door mechanism 36, thecentral region of the front of frame 302 of door assembly 36′ has astandardized data receptacle 360. Receptacle 360 can be any type that iscapable of making a point-to-point data connection as well as a limitedpower connection. Examples for receptacle 360 include a USB receptacleand a MicroUSB receptacle. The receptacle 360 can receive acorresponding connector on a key 362.

FIG. 26 is a front perspective view of the door assembly shown in FIG.25 with the key 362 inserted (e.g., into receptacle 360). Key 362includes a power source, such as a rechargeable battery 364. Key 362also includes a PCB or circuit board 366 with a mounted DIP (dual inlinepackage) switch 368. The power source 364 and the DIP switches will bedescribed in more detail below.

Key 362 also contains a microprocessor or MPU 363 with program orfirmware that determines if there is a code match between DIP switch 368of key 362 and DIP switch 372 of circuit board 370 and then enables thecurrent flow to the SMA wire 382 if the switch 368, 372 settings match,as discussed further below.

FIG. 27 is a rear perspective view of the central region of the doorassembly 36′. As shown in FIG. 27, the central region of the rear of thedoor assembly 36′ supports a printed circuit board 370. Receptacle 360is attached to the circuit board 370 and passes through an opening inthe frame 302 so that it is accessible from the front of the frame 302.

One or more DIP switches 372 are also attached to the circuit board 370.In exemplary embodiments, the DIP switch or switches 372 include fourindividual on-off switches 374. For example, PCB 370 can include twoseparate switch pieces 372, with each switch piece 372 having two on-offswitches 374 (e.g., to allow for the central mounting of the receptacle360 on PCB 370). However, it should be understood that a DIP switch orswitches 372 having any number of on-off switches 374 can be used.

One end on each of two wires 378, 380 is also connected to circuit board370. The opposite ends of wires 378, 380 are electrically connected tothe shape-memory-alloy wire 382 (FIG. 28). Each wire 378, 380 iselectrically connected to an opposite end of the shape-memory-alloy wire382, near the location where the shape-memory-alloy wire 382 isconnected to the spring-loaded pin mechanism 222 (FIG. 28). FIG. 28 is aclose-up perspective rear-view of one side of the door assembly 36′shown in FIG. 25.

The MPU 363 on the circuit board 366 inside the key 362 and the circuitboard 370 on the rear of door assembly 36′ are configured such that ifthe DIP switch 368 in the key 362 has the same setting as the DIP switch372 on the board 370, an electric circuit powered by the battery 364inside of the key 362 is completed by the MPU 363. The circuit includeswire 378, shape-memory alloy wire 382, and wire 380 connected in series,with the shape-memory allow wire 382 acting as a resistor. The currentflow through this circuit causes the shape-memory alloy wire 382 tocontract, actuating the spring-loaded pin mechanisms 222 to unlock thedoor 36′. When the key 362 is removed, the circuit is broken. Whencurrent ceases to flow in shape-memory alloy wire 382, it returns to itsoriginal length. If DIP switch 368 in key 362 does not have the samesetting as the DIP switch 372 on the board 370, the MPU 363 does notenable the current flow through the shape-memory alloy wire 382.

As noted, the key 362 contains a microprocessor chip or MPU 363 thatreads the state of the DIP switch 372 (or switches 372) located on thedoor PCB 370 (through the micro USB connection) and determines if itmatches the DIP switch 368 setting on the key 362. If the DIP switch368, 372 settings match, then the microprocessor 363 enables atransistor/MOSFET current driver combination circuit that produces acurrent sufficient to actuate the SMA wire 382. There is also a lowbattery indicator circuit and a voltage step up charging circuit(capacitor and coil network) so that the 5 VDC from a standard USB powersource can be stepped up to allow charging of the 9 volt lithium battery364 contained in the key 362. As shown in FIG. 25, key 362 includes are-charging port 369.

The key 362 electronic circuit and the door 36′ electronic circuit areshown in FIGS. 31 and 32A-32C.

The SMA wire 382 is typically 250 microns in diameter and about 15inches long. It can have a resistance of about 18.5 ohm/cm. The pullforce is about 891 grams for this size SMA wire 382. However, thissystem could work with other diameter SMA wires and lengths that wouldprovide different pull forces. Exemplary length deformation for the SMAwire 382 is 3% to 5%. An exemplary current for this wire 382 to actuateis 1050 mA, however since the battery 364 discharges over time withmultiple actuations of the electronic lock, its voltage may drop offsomewhat through repeated uses. Therefore the SMA wire 382 needs toactuate at a lower voltage/current—roughly 8.5 volts and 750 mA. Whenthe battery 364 starts to become depleted, it can take longer for theSMA wire 382 to heat up and therefore to actuate the spring loaded pinmechanism 222 to open the door 36′ until it is unable to provide enoughcurrent to the SMA wire 382. Somewhat before that point the MPU chip 363senses a low battery voltage and activates an indicator (e.g., red LEDindicator) on the key 362.

FIGS. 29-30 show internal components of an exemplary key 362 for usewith door assembly 36′.

FIG. 31 shows a schematic of exemplary circuitry included in doorassembly 36′, and FIGS. 32A-32C show a schematic of exemplary circuitryincluded in exemplary key 362.

FIG. 33 shows exemplary door assembly 36′ mounted to an exemplary mediapatching system 10, the door assembly 36′ being moved to an openposition.

Although the systems and methods of the present disclosure have beendescribed with reference to exemplary embodiments thereof, the presentdisclosure is not limited to such exemplary embodiments and/orimplementations. Rather, the systems and methods of the presentdisclosure are susceptible to many implementations and applications, aswill be readily apparent to persons skilled in the art from thedisclosure hereof. The present disclosure expressly encompasses suchmodifications, enhancements and/or variations of the disclosedembodiments. Since many changes could be made in the above constructionand many widely different embodiments of this disclosure could be madewithout departing from the scope thereof, it is intended that all mattercontained in the drawings and specification shall be interpreted asillustrative and not in a limiting sense. Additional modifications,changes, and substitutions are intended in the foregoing disclosure.Accordingly, it is appropriate that the appended claims be construedbroadly and in a manner consistent with the scope of the disclosure.

What is claimed is:
 1. A media management system comprising: a firstbracket member and a second bracket member, the first bracket memberconfigured to releasably mount to a first cable management member andthe second bracket member configured to releasably mount to a secondcable management member, the first and second cable management membersconfigured to manage media cables; and a door assembly having a frameextending from a first end to a second end, the first end configured toreleasably mount to the first cable management member, and the secondend configured to releasably mount to the second cable managementmember; wherein the releasably mounted first and second ends allow thedoor assembly to move relative to the first and second bracket membersbetween a closed position and an open position and vice-versa; whereinthe first end of the frame includes a first hinge pin, the first hingepin configured to be releasably mounted to a first bottom extensionmember of the first cable management member; and wherein the second endof the frame includes a second hinge pin, the second hinge pinconfigured to be releasably mounted to a second bottom extension memberof the second cable management member; wherein the first hinge pin ispositioned within a first groove of the first end of the frame, and thesecond hinge pin is positioned within a second groove of the second endof the frame.
 2. The system of claim 1, wherein the first hinge pin isconfigured to be rotatably mounted to a first hinge portion of the firstbottom extension member, and the second hinge pin is configured to berotatably mounted to a second hinge portion of the second bottomextension member.
 3. The system of claim 1, wherein the first hinge pinincludes a first spring portion that is configured to be compressed by auser to retract and release the first hinge pin from the first bottomextension member; and wherein the second hinge pin includes a secondspring portion that is configured to be compressed by a user to retractand release the second hinge pin from the second bottom extensionmember.
 4. A media management system comprising: a first bracket memberand a second bracket member, the first bracket member configured toreleasably mount to a first cable management member and the secondbracket member configured to releasably mount to a second cablemanagement member, the first and second cable management membersconfigured to manage media cables; and a door assembly having a frameextending from a first end to a second end, the first end configured toreleasably mount to the first cable management member, and the secondend configured to releasably mount to the second cable managementmember; wherein the releasably mounted first and second ends allow thedoor assembly to move relative to the first and second bracket membersbetween a closed position and an open position and vice-versa; whereinthe frame includes a wire that extends from a first end to a second end,the first end of the wire mounted to a first spring-loaded pin mechanismand the second end of the wire mounted to a second spring-loaded pinmechanism; and wherein the first spring-loaded pin mechanism includes afirst pin configured to be releasably mounted to a first top extensionmember of the first cable management member, and the secondspring-loaded pin mechanism includes a second pin configured to bereleasably mounted to a second top extension member of the second cablemanagement member.
 5. The system of claim 4, wherein the first pin isconfigured to be releasably mounted to a first locking portion of thefirst top extension member, and the second pin is configured to bereleasably mounted to a second locking portion of the second topextension member.
 6. The system of claim 4, wherein the first end of thewire includes a first loop that is mounted to a slot or hole of thefirst pin, and the second end of the wire includes a second loop that ismounted to a slot or hole of the second pin.
 7. The system of claim 4,wherein the first spring-loaded pin mechanism includes a first springthat is configured to be compressed by a user to retract and release thefirst pin from the first top extension member; and wherein the secondspring-loaded pin mechanism includes a second spring that is configuredto be compressed by a user to retract and release the second pin fromthe second top extension member.
 8. The system of claim 7, wherein thefirst spring surrounds a portion of the first pin, and the second springsurrounds a portion of the second pin.
 9. The system of claim 7, whereinthe door assembly includes a latch configured to be releasably andmovably mounted to the frame, the latch including a groove that houses aportion of the wire; and wherein when the latch is moved upwardly by auser, this movement causes the wire to compress the first and secondsprings and also retract and release the first and second pins from thefirst and second top extension members, respectively.
 10. The system ofclaim 9, wherein the latch includes a hinge pin configured to bepositioned within a mounting groove of the frame to releasably andmovably mount the latch to the frame.
 11. The system of claim 4, whereinthe wire is fabricated from a shape-memory alloy, the wire configured tocontract when an electrical current passes through the wire and returnback to original length when the current ceases to flow through thewire.
 12. The system of claim 11, wherein when the wire contracts whenan electrical current passes through the wire, this contraction causesthe wire to compress the first and second springs and also retract andrelease the first and second pins from the first and second topextension members, respectively.
 13. The system of claim 12, wherein akey electrically connected to the frame is configured to cause anelectrical current to pass through the wire.
 14. The system of claim 13,wherein the key includes a first circuit board, a microprocessor and afirst dual inline package switch; wherein the frame includes a secondcircuit board, a second dual inline package switch and at least onecircuit wire connected to the second circuit board and electricallyconnected to the wire; and wherein when the key is mounted to the frame,the microprocessor of the key determines if there is a code matchbetween the first and second dual inline package switches and thenenables current flow to the wire if the first and second dual inlinepackage switches match.
 15. The system of claim 14, wherein the firstand second dual inline package switches each include four individualon-off switches.
 16. The system of claim 12, wherein the key isconnected to the frame via a USB receptacle.
 17. A media patching systemcomprising: a panel assembly having a front panel segment, the frontpanel segment having a plurality of apertures with each apertureconfigured to mount to a media connector assembly; a first bracketmember and a second bracket member, the first bracket member configuredto releasably mount to a first cable management member and the secondbracket member configured to releasably mount to a second cablemanagement member, the first and second cable management membersconfigured to manage media cables; a door assembly having a frameextending from a first end to a second end, the first end configured toreleasably mount to the first cable management member, and the secondend configured to releasably mount to the second cable managementmember; wherein the releasably mounted first and second ends allow thedoor assembly to move relative to the first and second bracket membersbetween a closed position and an open position and vice-versa; whereinthe panel assembly is movably mounted to the first and second bracketmembers and can move axially forwards or backwards relative to the firstand second bracket members; wherein the first end of the frame includesa first hinge pin, the first hinge pin configured to be releasablymounted to a first bottom extension member of the first cable managementmember; and wherein the second end of the frame includes a second hingepin, the second hinge pin configured to be releasably mounted to asecond bottom extension member of the second cable management member;wherein the first hinge pin includes a first spring portion that isconfigured to be compressed by a user to retract and release the firsthinge pin from the first bottom extension member; and wherein the secondhinge pin includes a second spring portion that is configured to becompressed by a user to retract and release the second hinge pin fromthe second bottom extension member.
 18. A media management systemcomprising: a first bracket member and a second bracket member; a firstcable management member and a second cable management member, the firstand second cable management members configured to manage media cables; adoor assembly having a frame extending from a first end to a second end;means for releasably mounting: (i) the first cable management member tothe first bracket member, and (ii) the second cable management member tothe second bracket member; and means for releasably mounting: (i) thefirst end of the frame to the first cable management member, and (ii)the second end of the frame to the second cable management member;wherein the releasably mounted first and second ends allow the doorassembly to move relative to the first and second bracket membersbetween a closed position and an open position and vice-versa; whereinthe frame includes a wire that extends from a first end to a second end,the first end of the wire mounted to a first spring-loaded pin mechanismand the second end of the wire mounted to a second spring-loaded pinmechanism; and wherein the first spring-loaded pin mechanism includes afirst pin configured to be releasably mounted to a first top extensionmember of the first cable management member, and the secondspring-loaded pin mechanism includes a second pin configured to bereleasably mounted to a second top extension member of the second cablemanagement member.